STD Testing Specialist

What is an STD?

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is a disease which is contracted through any type of sexual contact. The disease spreads from one person to another through bodily fluids such as semen or vaginal secretions, it can also be passed through the blood. The disease can spread through contact with infected skin or mucous membrane as well. Most times these sexually transmitted infections don’t present with obvious symptoms when they do they are called diseases. Many of these diseases are easily treatable while are will not have a cure. This is why STD prevention is so important. Safe sex practices and avoiding drug use or other risky behaviors can work to prevent infection. Herpes, chlamydia, syphilis, genital warts, HIV/AIDS, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, bacterial vaginosis, and the human papillomavirus are examples of common STDS. Pelvic inflammatory disease, mucopurulent cervicitis, and molluscum contagiosum are medical conditions usually caused by an STD.

What are the symptoms of an STD?

The symptoms of an STD vary from person to person and from disease to disease. Many STDs such as herpes, HPV, and chlamydia do not present symptoms. Sores, ulcers, a rash, pus, pain, and itching may occur in certain STDs. In some cases, the person may experience pain or burning when urinating. Pain in the lower abdomen, bleeding in between periods, changes in menstruation, abnormal vaginal discharge, an unpleasant odor in from the genitals, pain during intercourse, and discharge from the penis are all signs of potential STD.

How is testing performed?

Testing is most often completed with a blood or urine test for most diseases. Some infections are tested with a swab from inside the penis or cervix. Dr. Hago may be able to visually evaluate some cases. If you are concerned that you may be at risk, contact Dr. Hago at Empire New York Medical Care to schedule an STD test or come into the practice to learn more about preventing STDs.